Parsons, Talcott

Talcott Parsons (1902-1979) was one of most influential and controversial theorists of twentieth-century sociology. He served on the faculty of Harvard University for forty-five years. He developed the concept of action theory, which was based on voluntarism and analytical realism. He is also responsible for introducing Max Weber's work to America. Some of his many works include The Structure of Social Action, The System of Modern Societies, and Politics and Social Structure.